Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that brings everyone together, this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe is the one for you! It’s packed with tender beef short ribs and zesty Mexican chicken sausage, creating a delightful mix of flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for family gatherings or those busy weeknights when you need something delicious and filling, this chili is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

I love how this chili not only satisfies hunger but also brings comfort on chilly days or during game nights. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling: This chili is loaded with protein and beans to keep you satisfied.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deliciously rich flavor.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps, even beginner cooks can impress their family and friends.
• Make-ahead friendly: It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!
• Customizable toppings: Add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful chili:

For the Chili

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless short ribs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 jalapeno peppers (chopped; use serranos for hotter)
• 6 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 1 pound Mexican chicken sausage
• 1 cup beef stock
• 3 15-ounce cans fire roasted tomatoes
• 1 15-ounce can black beans (drained)
• 1 15-ounce can red kidney beans (drained)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder blend (I’m using a hot New Mexican blend)
• 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Hot sauce (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons corn meal (optional, for thickening)
• Your favorite toppings for serving

Variations

This Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe is flexible and lends itself well to personalization. Here are some fun ideas to put your twist on it:

• Swap the meat: Try using ground turkey or beef instead of short ribs for a different texture.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat entirely and add more beans or lentils for protein.

How to Make Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season your short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them until they develop a beautiful brown crust—about 1-2 minutes per side. This step is crucial as it locks in flavor! If needed, work in batches so as not to overcrowd the pot. Once browned, set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add your chopped onion and jalapeno peppers. Cook them for about 5 minutes until softened. This step builds a flavorful base by releasing the natural sweetness of the onions while adding zest from the jalapeños.

Step 3: Cook Chicken Sausage

Next, toss in your chopped garlic along with the Mexican chicken sausage. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes while breaking up the sausage into smaller pieces. You want it mostly cooked through at this point; this will help meld all those wonderful flavors into each bite!

Step 4: Spice It Up

Stir in your chili powder blend, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow these spices to cook for about a minute—this lets their essential oils release and enhances their flavors before they mingle with other ingredients.

Step 5: Build Flavor with Stock

Pour in your beef stock while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Those bits are packed with flavor! Mix everything well before moving on.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return those reserved short ribs back into the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce to taste. Stir everything together so all those delicious elements combine perfectly!

Step 7: Simmer Away

Bring your chili to a boil! Once bubbling away happily, reduce heat to low. Cover it up and let it simmer gently for about two hours—or longer if you prefer super tender short ribs that almost melt in your mouth.

Step 8: Thicken It Up (Optional)

If you find that your chili is too soupy after cooking, don’t worry! Just stir in cornmeal or crushed tortillas gradually until you’ve reached your desired thickness. Let it simmer again briefly so everything thickens nicely.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Scoop generous portions into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese or fresh cilantro! Enjoy every last bite of this cozy bowl of goodness!

Now that you have this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe at hand, get ready for compliments from family and friends alike! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Making chili is all about flavor and texture, so here are some pro tips to elevate your dish!

• Sear the meat properly: Taking the time to sear the short ribs until they have a beautiful brown crust enhances the flavor of your chili by adding depth and richness.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder chili, start with one jalapeno and taste as you go. You can always add more heat, but it’s hard to take it away once it’s in!

• Let it simmer longer: The longer you let your chili simmer, the better the flavors meld together. Aim for at least two hours, but if you can go longer, it will be worth the wait!

• Use high-quality beef stock: A good quality beef stock makes all the difference in creating a rich, flavorful base for your chili. Opt for low-sodium versions for better control over saltiness.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t be shy about trying different toppings! Fresh herbs, cheese alternatives, or even crushed tortilla chips can add a delightful crunch and extra dimension to each bowl.

How to Serve Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Serving this hearty chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation pop.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up every bite.
• Diced avocado: Creamy avocado provides a wonderful contrast to the spiciness of the chili while adding healthy fats.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before eating can enhance all the flavors and give your chili a refreshing zing.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing adds a sweet, buttery flavor that complements the spicy chili perfectly. Plus, it’s great for soaking up every last drop!

• Green salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the hearty warmth of chili. Consider including ingredients like cherry tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers for added texture.

• Tortilla chips: Serve crispy tortilla chips on the side for dipping or crumbling over the top of your chili. They provide an enjoyable crunch that balances out the tenderness of the short ribs.

• Rice or quinoa: A scoop of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa can help soak up those delicious juices from your chili while adding an extra layer of heartiness to your meal.

Now you’re ready to serve up some delicious bowls of Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili that will warm hearts and satisfy appetites! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and can be easily frozen, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool fully, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, place the chili in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock or water to help it loosen up as it heats.
• Stir occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely with a lid.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I substitute chicken sausage in this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, you can use turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How spicy is this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

The spiciness depends on your choice of peppers. Jalapenos add mild heat while serrano peppers ramp it up significantly. Feel free to adjust based on your taste preference!

Can I add more vegetables to this chili?

Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn would be excellent additions. Just sauté them along with the onions and jalapenos for even more flavor.

What toppings go well with this chili?

Some great toppings include shredded cheese (or dairy-free alternatives), sour cream (or plant-based yogurt), chopped cilantro, green onions, or diced avocado.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding extra spices or toppings that you love. Happy cooking!